“We all start at zero, Thursday is the first (group) game and I think it’s important to start the group stage with a win because that gives you confidence.”

The Europa League has been somewhat unloved by some managers in the past, but United and Jose Mourinho certainly felt its worth last season, with their triumph giving them access to the Champions League.

Everton boss Ronald Koeman, whose men play United away on Sunday, has indicated he will make some changes for Thursday’s game but emphasised he will pick a “strong” team and that he takes the Europa League “really seriously”.

He appeared to signal that Rooney will be keeping his starting place against the Italian outfit.

The 31-year-old forward – due to appear at Stockport Magistrates’ Court on Monday having been charged with drink-driving on September 1 – played the full duration on Saturday as Everton suffered a 3-0 home loss Tottenham.

And Koeman also said at the pre-match press conference in Reggio Emilia: “After last weekend, we need to react. In that second half (which began with Tottenham scoring their third in opening few seconds) we lost a lot of belief and confidence. I think we didn’t play with the right aggression.

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London ...

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue a...

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London St...

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue after a three day turnaround from their last Premier League match, for their inability to break the Hammers down.

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue after a three day turnaround from their last Premier League match, for their inability to break the Hammers down.

Arsene Wenger speaks to Des Kelly after Arsenal's goalless draw with West Ham at the London Stadium and blames fatigue after a three day turnaround from their last Premier League match, for their inability to break the Hammers down.